Zesty Enchilada Pasta Recipe: A Fusion Fiesta for Your Table

Creamy, cheesy comfort flows through every bite of this mouthwatering enchilada pasta recipe that combines two beloved culinary favorites.

Mexican-inspired flavors dance across your plate with bold, zesty seasonings and rich, melted cheese.

Tender pasta spirals capture every drop of the savory sauce, creating a hearty meal that satisfies deep hunger.

Weeknight dinners become extraordinary with this simple yet spectacular dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Spicy jalapeños and tender chicken elevate each forkful with remarkable depth and complexity.

The blend of traditional enchilada spices with classic pasta makes this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

One taste, and you’ll understand why this dish has become a household sensation.

Enchilada Pasta Recipe: Flavor At A Glance

• Boost Family Meal Excitement: This one-pot wonder transforms classic enchilada flavors into a kid-friendly pasta dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: Combine ground beef, pasta, and zesty seasonings in a single skillet for a hassle-free meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup.
• Pack Nutritious Punch: Loaded with protein from beef and beans, plus veggies like corn and tomatoes, this recipe delivers a balanced meal that satisfies hunger and nutrition needs.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or add toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or green onions to make this versatile recipe match your family's taste preferences.

Enchilada Pasta Recipe Pantry Essentials

• Pasta: A classic base that provides hearty texture and substance to the dish.
• Ground Beef: Protein-rich meat that adds robust flavor and satisfying substance.
• Enchilada Sauce: Signature sauce that delivers authentic Mexican-inspired taste.

• Onions, Chili Powder, Cumin, Salt, Pepper: Aromatic ingredients that enhance and deepen the overall flavor profile.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and tangy brightness to the pasta mixture.
• Black Beans, Corn: Nutritious additions that provide extra texture and authentic southwestern character.

• Cheese, Sour Cream: Creamy components that create a rich, smooth, and indulgent final texture.
• Cilantro: Optional fresh herb that provides a bright, herbaceous garnish.

Easy Instructions For Enchilada Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water until it reaches al dente texture.

Once done, drain completely and set aside in a separate bowl.

Step 2: Sizzle Ground Beef with Onions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Crumble ground beef into the pan and add chopped onions.

Cook until the meat is fully browned and onions are translucent.

Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Step 3: Create Flavor-Packed Sauce

• Enchilada sauce
• Diced tomatoes
• Chili powder
• Ground cumin
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir everything together, allowing the spices to coat the meat evenly.

Step 4: Combine Hearty Ingredients

• Cooked pasta
• Black beans
• Corn kernels

Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well distributed.

Step 5: Simmer and Develop Flavors

Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes.

This allows all the delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Melt in Creamy Goodness

• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream

Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Plate and Garnish

Transfer the enchilada pasta to serving dishes.

Top with additional shredded cheese or fresh chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Serve immediately while hot and bubbling.

Tips For Great Enchilada Pasta Results

• Rinse pasta with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking, ensuring ideal texture.
• Adjust chili powder and cumin quantities based on personal heat preference, starting with smaller amounts and tasting before adding more.
• Swap ground beef with ground turkey, shredded chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for diverse dietary needs.
• Remove skillet from heat before adding cheese to prevent scorching and create smooth, creamy consistency.
• Prepare this dish in advance and refrigerate, reheating gently with a splash of broth to maintain moisture and flavor.

Enchilada Pasta Recipe Fun Variations

• Vegetarian Enchilada Pasta: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced tofu for a meat-free version that maintains the same zesty flavor profile.
• Chicken Enchilada Pasta: Swap ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken or diced chicken breast for a lighter protein option that keeps the dish's hearty essence.
• Gluten-Free Enchilada Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure enchilada sauce is gluten-free, making this meal accessible for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Spicy Southwest Enchilada Pasta: Add diced jalapeños, increase chili powder, and mix in some hot sauce for an extra kick that brings intense southwestern heat.

Serving Up Enchilada Pasta With Flair

• Party Platter Perfection: Serve this hearty pasta in a large communal dish for gatherings, allowing guests to scoop generous portions with extra toppings nearby.
• Taco Night Twist: Transform your typical taco night by presenting this pasta as a delicious alternative, complemented with tortilla chips and fresh salsa.
• Lunch Box Hero: Pack cooled portions in meal prep containers for a convenient, protein-packed lunch that stays delicious when reheated at work or school.
• Mexican-Inspired Side Show: Pair with classic Mexican sides like guacamole, refried beans, or a crisp green salad to create a complete, satisfying meal experience.

Saving Enchilada Pasta For Later

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer pasta to freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date and contents.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Add splash of water or extra enchilada sauce to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until steaming hot.
• Warm in skillet over medium-low heat. Add small amount of water or broth to restore moisture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess fat.

• How spicy is this dish?

The recipe has a mild to moderate heat level from chili powder and enchilada sauce. If you want less heat, reduce the chili powder or use a mild enchilada sauce. For more kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This enchilada pasta reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors actually develop and taste even better the next day.

Enchilada Pasta Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Mexican-inspired Enchilada Pasta blends comfort and zest in one irresistible dish. Creamy noodles dance with spicy flavors, promising a quick dinner solution that delights hungry families and satisfies your craving for bold southwestern cuisine.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound ground beef or chicken
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 can (10 ounces / 280 grams) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (4 ounces / 113 grams) diced green chilies

Pasta and Vegetables:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne or rotini)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt (for boiling pasta water)

Seasonings and Cheese:

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
• 1/4 cup cream cheese

Optional Garnishes:

• Sour cream
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños
• Sliced black olives

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare pasta al dente according to package guidelines, then set aside in a colander to drain thoroughly.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high temperature and sauté ground beef with diced onions until meat is completely browned and crumbled.
3. Eliminate excess grease from the meat mixture by carefully draining fat through a strainer.
4. Introduce enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, and traditional Mexican spices like chili powder and cumin into the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper for robust flavor profile.
5. Incorporate cooked pasta, rinsed black beans, and sweet corn kernels into the meat mixture, gently folding ingredients to ensure even distribution.
6. Reduce heat and allow mixture to simmer for 6-8 minutes, allowing spices to meld and intensify the overall taste.
7. Remove skillet from heat and fold in shredded cheese and creamy sour cream until sauce becomes smooth and glossy.
8. Transfer pasta to serving dishes immediately while hot, optionally garnishing with additional cheese sprinkles or fresh chopped cilantro for vibrant presentation.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner, lighter version of the dish.
• Boost nutrition by adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach during the simmering stage.
• Control spice levels by adjusting chili powder or using mild enchilada sauce for sensitive palates.
• Prepare this meal ahead of time and reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture and prevent pasta from becoming mushy.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 530 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg